Sachem East High School’s Project Adventure seniors recently capped off their high school experience with a beloved tradition: a canoeing expedition down the scenic Nissequogue River.

This annual adventure, a Sachem tradition for over 30 years, began with weeks of preparation. Students trained in the Sachem East pool, mastering essential canoeing techniques, including the C-stroke, J-stroke, seat switching, capsizing and T-rescues. Their final day in the pool ended on a high note with a lively game of water polo.

On June 5, the seniors put their skills into action, navigating a five-mile journey along the river. The trip was more than just a physical challenge – it encouraged teamwork, communication and a deeper appreciation for the outdoors.

Along the way, students shared laughs, sang along to country music, enjoyed a group meal and created lasting memories. As they paddle toward graduation, these seniors leave with more than just new skills – they take with them the spirit of adventure and the bonds they’ve built together.

Congratulations to the Sachem East Project Adventure Class of 2025.

Date Added: 6/6/2025

Sachem North High School recently held its annual Color Us United Color Run, marking the fourth year of this vibrant tradition. Organized by the Foreign Language Honor Society, the event brings together students in grades 9-12 to celebrate diversity, unity and global awareness.

Under the guidance of advisers Amanda Ferraiolo and Tracee Italiano, and led by student officers Ryan Durkin (president), Marie Manolt (vice president), Alain Alarcon (secretary), Hanah Harvey (treasurer), and Ava Chirichella (media director), the Color Run continues to grow as a meaningful and inclusive experience.

Beyond the fun and festivities, the event serves a deeper purpose. Proceeds from the run support global initiatives promoting equality, with this year’s funds aimed at helping to build a school abroad, furthering the mission of creating educational opportunities for all.

Date Added: 6/5/2025

Waverly Avenue Elementary School’s first grade students from Mrs. LaPolla’s, Mrs. Mayola’s and Mrs. Weston’s classes recently took the stage for a vibrant performance of “A Happy Healthy Me.” The production highlighted important lessons about staying active, eating well and taking care of oneself through music and movement.

Students began preparing for the show in January during their weekly music classes with Ms. Holmes, where they learned lines, songs and choreography. Their hard work culminated in a high-energy performance filled with memorable singing, dancing and meaningful messages.

The stage was filled with enthusiasm, bright smiles and a contagious sense of joy as the young performers brought their story to life. The event was a celebration of both their creativity and the healthy habits they shared with the audience.

Date Added: 6/4/2025

Sachem High School East recently wrapped up a monthlong Mental Health Awareness initiative dedicated to fostering kindness, mindfulness and meaningful connections within the school community. Through creative activities and student-led efforts, the initiative emphasized the importance of emotional well-being and healthy habits.

Led by school psychologists Dr. Fern DaSilva and Mrs. Cheryl Ryan, speech language pathologist and Renaissance Program Coordinator Doreen Schaefer, English teacher Gina Killoran and the Renaissance Student Leadership Program, the initiative brought mental wellness to the forefront of student life. Special thanks go to media specialist Jacque Wrightson for her support with promotional materials, and to Renaissance President Sean Hogan and Vice President Ava Rogers for their leadership throughout the month.

At the heart of the initiative was the Mental Health Booth, offering rotating activities such as breathing exercises, affirmation cards, coloring sheets and a Worry Jar for letting go of anxiety. Surrounding posters shared mental health strategies and encouraging messages. Students could also sign up weekly for small-group activities to foster connection and support.

Each morning, Renaissance students shared announcements focused on stress-relief techniques and positive affirmations. They also introduced “Wear Green for Mental Health Fridays,” designed supportive posters and decorated two cafeteria hallway poles with green hearts. Pens were attached so students could write positive reflections or messages about mental health. Green awareness ribbons were also distributed to both staff and students.

The initiative followed weekly themes:

* Week One: Kickoff to Kindness – Students and staff engaged with Kindness Challenge Cards and contributed to a Compliment Wall, encouraging self-compassion and peer recognition.
* Week Two: Mindful Moments – Activities included mindful breathing, mindful eating, a Stress Management Mantra Wall, affirmation cards and use of the Worry Jar.
* Week Three: Connection – Students participated in connection-building exercises and created a collaborative poster project, supported by Mr. Bildzukewicz, promoting empathy and inclusion.
* Week Four: Healthy Habits – The month concluded with a focus on integrating all prior themes into lasting habits, ending with a reflective Mindful Walk around the school grounds.

Sachem East’s initiative not only raised awareness of mental health but also empowered students to take meaningful steps toward building a more mindful and compassionate school culture.

Date Added: 6/3/2025

Click here to view the newsletter.

Date Added: 6/2/2025